Logan

In my office, I pounded the punching bag, each strike an outlet for the whirlwind of emotions inside me. Daphne had infuriated me by not listening, but Fred's presence stoked a deeper, fiercer rage. "Just two more weeks," I muttered, counting the days Billy took Fred back.

How could you do that to me. Daph? We don't fucking like him, no one does. Why would you listen to him instead? And since fucking when is he allowed near the kids?  

I had promised Daphne I'd rein in my anger and paranoia. That promise drove me from the hall earlier, desperate not to lose control. A vow that led me to leave the hall earlier instead of risking another explosive outburst. Since Daphne returned to me, I'd never felt happier. Losing her again to Fred was unthinkable. Fred wasn't worth the trouble, but the urge to teach him a lesson screamed at me.

This fucking bastard is really getting on my nerves.

I couldn't trust Fred. The way he looked at Daphne ignited a fury I struggled to contain. The way he looked at Daphne made my blood boil. I wanted to gouge his eyes out, to torture him until he knew his place. But I couldn't scare Daphne again, not now.

But why had Daphne taken Fred's side? Did he have some hold over her? Did she feel something for him?

"No," I answered myself, shaking my head vehemently. Daphne couldn't harbour affection for Fred. She loved me. I saw it in her eyes—the joy, the connection that bound us together.

She loves me. Me. No chance - her eyes are only for ME.

Frustration surged, and I unleashed a primal scream into the punching bag. The room reverberated with my fury, the bag swinging wildly in response. Fuck the business, the empire, the deals, the pandemic. Daphne and the gang had brought me alive in ways I never knew possible. She made me feel young, playful, and above all, special.

I'd move mountains for her, for us, for the gang. To prove myself, to protect what we had built together. Nothing and no one would jeopardise that—not even Fred.

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I sat in my office chair, face buried in my hands, trying to make sense of the storm of emotions swirling inside me. Just as I started to pull myself together, a knock on the door broke through my thoughts.

"Come in," I said, forcing myself to sound composed and authoritative.

Patrick entered, his presence a welcome sight. "It's good to see you, boss," he said, his tone serious. "I need to talk to you."

Patrick has done really well for himself. Always knew I could rely on him. Wonder what is on his mind, must be important.

I stood and shook his hand. "Billy told me you did some great work. It's good to have you, Patrick."

Patrick nodded but hesitated, clearly burdened by something. I couldn't wait. "What is it?" I asked, the urgency in my voice unmistakable.

"I should take you to the CCTV feed room," Patrick replied. We walked to the top floor, the building eerily quiet as everyone else slept.

Least whatever it is, It is caught on camera.

"Ever since I came back," Patrick began, "I've been reviewing the footage I missed. The other lads probably didn't do a thorough job like I do." He looked uncomfortable but continued, "There's some suspicious footage of Daphne and Fred together. I haven't told anyone because I didn't want to disrespect you. I brought it straight to your attention."

Did he just say Fred.. and Daphne together?

My heart pounded as we entered the CCTV room. Patrick played the footage, and I watched in shock and anger as Fred grabbed Daphne, struck her, and then cut a deal with her. My stomach churned, and my fists clenched. He fucking hit her and why hadn't Daphne told me about this? She fucking lied to me. She didn't walk into a door when she got that cut on her cheek. Did she really plan to betray me?

Patrick noticed my reaction and quickly added, "She did leave crying to the bathroom after. Others, especially Noah, saw it."

They saw her cry and no one told me? Especially Noah?

I could barely contain my rage. "Why didn't Noah say anything?", I raised my voice.

"He probably thought you'd handle it better if you saw it yourself first," Patrick said softly.

As I watched the footage again, my mind raced. Fred's betrayal was infuriating, but Daphne's silence stung even more. Did she think I wouldn't stand by her or did she plan to betray me?

"This ends now," I growled. "Fred has crossed the line."

Patrick nodded in agreement. "What do you want to do, boss?"

"We need a plan," I announced. "But first, I need to talk to Daphne. This can't go on any longer. This stays between us for now Patrick." He nodded in agreement.

As we left the CCTV room, we saw Daphne creeping out of Rebecca's room. "Why are you still up?" I asked her sharply, with a thousand questions swirling in my head.

Why were you in her room? Do you really have nothing to say to me? How could you not tell me anything? Why Fred? Don't you love me?

"Why are YOU still up?" she shot back, her tone defensive.

I tilted my head, crossing my arms. "I don't know, it's not like I have an empire to run," I replied sarcastically.

"Thank you again, Patrick," I said, giving him a nod that signalled he should leave. Patrick understood the hint, leaving me alone with my tumultuous thoughts.

I cannot wait any longer. I need answers Daph, right now.

I turned to Daphne, grabbing her hand and pulling her toward the CCTV room. She followed, a mix of confusion and apprehension on her face. Once inside, I stared at her, anger boiling just below the surface.

"Is there anything you need to tell me? Anything I should know?" I asked, my voice contaminated with agony.

Daphne looked scared, clearly out of place. "No," she lied, her voice trembling.

Is that how it is then?

Without a word, I avoided her eyes and replayed the video in front of her. I watched her reaction closely. As the footage played, she sighed, tears streaming down her face.

"I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Fred has me trapped. I have to go along with his plan, or he will kill us all."

I heard her, but I couldn't let go of the anger and betrayal I felt. I walked towards her, backing her up against the wall. "But I need to know what is YOUR plan? Were you really going to betray me?", I hissed.

Daphne looked hurt, her eyes filled with pain. "You really think I'd cross you?" she stuttered. "I love you, Logan. I would never betray you. My heart belongs to you."

She held my cheeks, kissing my lips softly. Her touch was tender, and I felt the sincerity in her words. I believed her; I did trust her. I just needed reassurance. I placed my hand on her waist, softly caressing her cheek where Fred had struck her

 Leaning in close, I whispered in her ear, "I belong to you too. I promise we will make him pay for this."

"I understand why Fred was so confident in the dinner hall," I said, my voice softening, locking eyes with hers. "He thinks you're on his side."

Daphne nodded, her eyes still brimming with tears. "He's underestimating us. He stands no fucking chance against us" she said, her voice resolute. "I'll do whatever it takes to protect us."

Daph is the best thing that's ever happened to me, I swear. She's still trying to protect us all, even though, Fred has her trapped. It feels good to have someone prioritise me, finally. I love how she feels the need to protect the gang too, let alone the children. It is not her responsibility but mine. Crazy, how we can be so alike.

I pulled her into a tight embrace, feeling the weight of the situation pushing down on my shoulders but also the strength of our connection pulling us together. "We'll get through this," I promised. "Together."

Daphne embraced my hug, wrapping her arms around me and sinking into my chest for what felt like an eternity. I could feel her heartbeat slowing as she found solace in our connection. Eventually, she pulled away, wiping her tears.

She looked up at me, with confidence in her eyes. "What's the plan?" she asked, her voice steady now.

I took a deep breath. "First, we need to keep up appearances. Fred can't suspect that we know anything. We should look distant for now, putting on a facade so he'll trust you and reveal more information."

Daphne nodded in agreement. "So we need to keep our distance?"

"Exactly," I replied. "If he touches you or gets too close, don't stand for it, no matter how scared you are. Fred knows he's crossing boundaries with you and needs to be put in his place by you."

Daphne's eyes hardened with self assurance. "Got it. But to gain his trust, I'll need some real information to feed him. Something substantial that he can verify."

She's right there, love how smart she is.

I thought carefully, not wanting to reveal too much. "Tell Fred that Billy is thinking of expanding south while I take over the northern region. Mention that Billy has someone in mind for the expansion, but it's not Fred. Convince Fred that Billy wants him to be in charge of the expansion and that's why he sent him here to gain experience."

Daphne nodded, absorbing the plan. "And what about the mole over at Billy's side? Should we expose the agreement with Iron Claws?"

Fuck Michael. I will make him pay, he has to be gone by the end of this, no matter what. First, we need to know what we are dealing with, though.

I sighed, leaning against the wall. "Not yet, I showed mercy to Michael, and this entire time, he's been buying information to take us down. But I can't kill him yet—Fred will know that I know. We need to deal with Fred and the mole first."

Daphne nodded again, her eyes filled with positivity. "Also, I told Rebecca since I couldn't tell you. She is just as mad as we are but we can handle this, Logan".

I pulled her close once more, feeling her warmth. With Daphne by my side, I knew we could overcome any challenge that lay ahead.

Unstoppable, you and me.

As Daphne left my office, she turned back to me one last time. "Logan," she said, "I have to meet Fred every night near his post, near the entry point. You should tap into our conversations by installing a mic nearby."

I will do everything in my power to keep you safe.

I looked at her, my heart aching with concern but steeled with perseverance. Leaning in, I kissed her again, a silent promise of my love and protection. "Go, before Fred gets suspicious," I whispered, knowing how much was riding on our plan.

I watched Daphne disappear into the shadows, my heart heavy with worry but filled with determination. I needed to ensure her safety and gather enough evidence to bring Fred down.

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I headed straight to Noah's room, my mind racing with thoughts of our plan. When I knocked on the door, Noah quickly jumped out of bed, his face a mix of concern and sleepiness. "Is everything alright?" he asked, clearly disturbed by the late-night visit.

No. 

I went quiet for a few seconds, gathering my thoughts. "Noah, why didn't you tell me that Daphne was upset earlier on?" I asked, my voice calm but firm.

Noah looked at me honestly. "I wanted to respect her privacy, Logan. Instead, I told Rebecca."

Fair enough.

I nodded in acceptance, appreciating his honesty. "I understand. But now, I need you to keep something between us. Fred is a mole. I trust you with my life with this news, Noah. Only Daphne, Rebecca, Patrick, and now you know about this."

Noah's eyes widened, but he nodded, his loyalty evident. "Fuck, that's crazy. I knew he was up to something; his arrogance is something".

I nodded my head in agreement. "The poor bastard dug himself a grave", we snickered. 

With that, I left Noah's room, my mind already working on the next steps. The installation of the mic near the entry point was crucial. I have o ensure that Fred's every word is recorded, giving us the ammunition we need to bring him down.

Daphne's role was dangerous, but her courage was admirable. Each night, she would meet Fred, acting as if she were on his side, while I listened in and gathered evidence. With Patrick and Noah's help, we would monitor Fred's movements and interactions closely.

Together, we were playing a dangerous game, but with determination and unity, I was confident we could outsmart Fred and protect our family. Daphne and I were bound by more than just love; we were a team, ready to face whatever came our way.

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Sleep evaded me, haunted by dreams of my empire slipping through my fingers. When I finally awoke, groggy and restless, I knew I had to focus on something concrete to clear my mind. The expansion needed my attention, and I couldn't afford to let my fears paralyse me.

My Daph. My family. My work. My crown. I can't sleep. I need to do something. A meeting.

I set up a meeting in my office to discuss the new expansion. Noah was at the top of my list to take control. He had proven his loyalty and competence time and time again. The meeting room buzzed with the low murmur of conversations as I entered, my mind already churning through the details.

The room was filled with the usual buzz of anticipation as I walked in, taking my seat at the head of the table. Noah and a few of my other trusted members were already there, waiting for instructions. As I began to outline the agenda, the door opened, and Daphne walked in right behind Rebecca.

Rebecca moved smoothly, passing me a note discreetly as she took her seat. I accepted it without making eye contact, careful not to draw any suspicion. The note was from Daphne:

"He's convinced and is overly confident. He is also planning on setting a meeting with Iron Claws soon - let's set him up."

"Alright," I said, addressing the room, "let's talk about the expansion. Our empire is growing, and we might need more recruits to manage the new territories."

I looked at Noah, hoping he would catch my drift. "In five days, I'll be taking Noah and a few others down to work on the expansion. It's crucial that we establish a strong foundation and integrate our new recruits effectively."

Noah nodded, understanding the underlying message. This trip wasn't just about expansion; it was about setting Fred up and ensuring he couldn't sabotage us from within.

As I continued speaking, Daphne smiled openly at Fred, who seemed to revel in the attention. He tried to catch my eye, clearly wanting to show off that Daphne was growing fond of him. I pretended to get annoyed, keeping up the facade.

"Daphne," I said sharply, "focus."

She looked surprised, playing her part perfectly. "I'm sorry, Logan," she apologised, feeding into Fred's ego.

That's my girl -  play him like a fiddle.

Fred smirked, clearly pleased with himself, while I maintained a stern expression. The pieces were falling into place, and Fred's overconfidence would be his downfall.

The meeting had ended, but my mind was still racing. We have a plan, but I need more assurance. I picked up my phone and dialled Billy's number, hoping he was available for an immediate meeting. The phone rang twice before he answered.

"Logan, what is it?" Billy's voice sounded wary.

"I need to meet with you alone, Billy. It's urgent. Do not tell anyone about our meeting," I replied, keeping my tone serious.

There was a brief pause before he responded. "Alright, Logan. Come to the Westfair Bridge, in an hour, I'll be alone."

After setting up the meeting with Billy, I knew I couldn't go alone. Noah and Patrick were well aware of Fred's betrayal and their support was crucial. I found them alone in the common room, their faces serious as they discussed the upcoming days.

"Noah, Patrick," I called, getting their attention. They looked up, eyes sharp and attentive. "I need you both to come with me to the bridge. We're meeting Billy, and he needs to be brought up to speed on everything."

Noah nodded, standing up immediately. "Understood, Logan. Let's move."

Patrick followed suit, his expression resolute. "I'll drive boss."

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The streets were eerily silent as I made my way to the meeting spot. Billy had chosen a bridge, an old structure covered in moss and decay, a testament to the world we lived in now. The buildings around us were crumbling, overtaken by nature. It was like an apocalyptic scene out of a nightmare, and it fit our situation perfectly.

I reached the centre of the bridge, scanning the surroundings to ensure we were truly alone. Billy stood there, true to his word, a solitary figure in the desolate landscape. The tension in the air hung heavy over us.

"Logan," he greeted, steadily.

"Billy," I replied with a nod,  wasting no time. "Fred's a mole. He's been working against us, and there's a spy on your side too."

Billy's eyes widened in shock, his weathered face showing signs of worry. "A mole on my side? This is serious, Logan."

"You have four days to find out who it is," I said, laying it all out. "The exact time and place of the meeting will be revealed soon, but we need to deal with Iron Claws first. They're planning something big, and we can't afford any more surprises."

Billy nodded, absorbing the information. "You're clever, Logan. I've been around a long time, and I'm glad to have you on my side. But dealing with Iron Claws, wiping them out completely, that's a big move."

"I won't get involved with Iron Claws, but this time, we need to eliminate all threats," I said firmly, revisiting the promise I made to Daphne; less violence. "An hour before their meeting with Fred, I want your boys to handle Iron Claws. Wipe them out."

Billy looked taken aback. "That's harsh, Logan. Are you sure about this?"

"I won't show mercy," I said, my voice hard. "We need to send a clear message. And during that chaos, you and I will make an appearance at the meeting to catch Fred and the mole. This is personal, Billy. I want my men around Fred. No one else."

Billy sighed, then nodded. "Alright, Logan. I am getting old; we will do it your way. We'll take care of Iron Claws and you can take care of Fred and my mole."

I looked around the apocalyptic scene, the decaying buildings a nasty reminder of the world we were trying to survive in. This was our reality, and we had to be ruthless to protect what was ours.

"Four days, Billy," I said, turning to leave. "Let's get to work."

As we walked away from the bridge, I stopped suddenly, turning back to face Billy. "One more thing," I said, catching his attention. "We need to be discreet. No more new recruits for now."

Billy nodded, understanding the need for caution. "Got it, Logan. Anything else?"

New tactic, actually. Let's set up a trap.

I took a deep breath, laying out the next part of the plan. "Split your men into six groups. Tell each group different false information. We'll narrow down who relays that piece of information to Fred."

Billy chuckled, a glint of admiration in his eyes. "Consider it done. Clever move, Logan."

I nodded, appreciating his confidence in the plan. "We'll have another meeting, same place, but in the evening on the fourth day."

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After the meeting with Billy, I made my way back to the safehouse. The bridge had felt like a scene from another world, with its moss-covered buildings and eerie silence. But now, as I approached the safehouse, I could hear raised voices coming from inside causing me to quicken my pace. Something was wrong.

Fuck, what's going on now?

Pushing open the door, I entered the main hall to find everyone gathered. Conversations abruptly stopped as they noticed my presence. I scanned the room, seeing the anger on the faces of my people. 

Ryan and the others were standing near the centre of the room, their expressions stern. Rebecca was off to the side, looking worried, while Daphne stood close to her, her face pale.

I glanced around, my gaze landing on Fred, who was standing with his arms crossed. He smirked when he saw me, and that alone was enough to set my blood boiling.

Of course, it has to be Fred related. I can't fucking stand the sight of him. He touched my girl and threatened us all. Want to bring me down? Try me.

"What's the disturbance?" I demanded, my voice slicing through the charged atmosphere.

Ryan stepped forward. "Fred here thinks he can just hop into a car and head off to Billy's yard to visit his old mates. We've been trying to explain it's against our protocols, but he's not listening."

Rebecca, standing beside Noah, added with a hint of disappointment, "It's not just about the car, Logan. It's about respecting the rules and the safety of everyone here."

Fred scoffed. "His rules suffocate us. Why the fear?"

Suffocation? It is survival mate, you'd have had us all killed by now, if you took my crown.

Noah shot back, frustration evident. "Rules keep us safe, Fred. You can't do as you please."

Fred's smirk widened, eyes darting to Daphne. "Living under Logan's thumb, Daphne? Is it voluntary?"

He seized her hand, attempting to pull her closer. Daphne recoiled, eyes wide in alarm. His voice turned mocking as he stroked her hair. "Just showing Daphne what she's missing. Not much choice, is there?"

Tears welled up in her eyes, and she looked trapped and terrified. That is the last straw.

White-hot anger surged through me, a storm unleashed. I lunged forward, fists finding their target. Before I knew it, I had crossed the room and grabbed Fred by the collar, my fist connecting with his jaw in a satisfying crunch. The room erupted in chaos as I threw punch after punch, frustration and anger fuelling each blow.

Fucking die already!

"Logan, stop!" Noah's voice barely registered as I continued to pummel Fred, who was now on the floor trying to shield himself.

It took Patrick, Ryan and Noah together to pull me off him, their combined strength finally breaking through my rage. I stood over Fred, breathing heavily, my knuckles bloodied. "Don't you ever touch my fucking girl again, do you hear me? And disrespect my people again, this is your last fucking warning Fred. You will never see sunrise again".

Fred coughed, wiping blood from his mouth, and nodded weakly. Fred looked expectantly at Daphne, who pretended to feel helpless under my control. Her act was convincing enough to keep Fred believing she was uncomfortable and trapped by me.

I looked around the room, seeing shock and fear in the eyes of my people. I took a deep breath, trying to regain my composure. 

I need to get out of here right now.  Need Daph with me, she makes me feel better. I need to hold her. 

I addressed the room. "Any more insubordination, and he answers directly to me. Take him to the shed, lock him in, he can sleep there tonight. Daphne, you're coming with me". 

I grabbed Daphne's hand, throwing a venomous glance at Fred before ushering her out of the room. The atmosphere was electric with traction, but I needed to get her away from him. Once we reached my office, Daphne broke down, sobbing quietly. I enveloped her in my arms, kissing her forehead to soothe her.

I hate seeing you cry. We just need to hold on, a little longer.

"Just five more days," I murmured, "I love you."

She looked up at me, tears brimming in her eyes. "I love you too," she whispered, her voice shaky. Then she noticed my bloodied knuckles and gasped.

"Oh, Logan," she said, hurrying to fetch the first aid kit. She carefully tended to my wounds, her touch gentle and loving. I almost stopped her, but the truth was, I loved her attention. I've missed you so much.

As she cleaned my injuries, tears streamed down her face. "I'm so sorry for putting you through this," she sobbed.

Don't cry. I am not worth your tears. I am to blame for bringing Fred over.

I drew her close, stroking her hair. "No, it's me who should be sorry. This isn't your fault."

She shook her head, tears falling freely. "I wish I had loved you sooner. Then I'd have been the luckiest girl sooner."

I knew we were meant to be from the moment I first met you. This is all I have wanted the most since you came into my life. I am the luckiest man right now because of you. You bring the best out of me.

Her words hit me hard, and I felt tears drown my eyes. I cupped her face in my hands, looking into her eyes with all the love I felt. "You are my Queen," I said, my voice breaking. "And I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe."

She clung to me, and we held each other tightly, finding comfort in our love despite the chaos finding its way back to us.